2015 Volvo S60 Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2015 Volvo S60 and Essential Safety Measures

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
15% chance it's the
Gas Cap
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions Control System
0%
45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2015 Volvo S60 smells like gas are the gas cap, the fuel system, or the emissions control system.
  • Gas Cap: A loose or damaged gas cap can cause fuel vapors to escape, triggering the check engine light and potentially affecting fuel system pressure.
  • Emissions Control System: A faulty emissions control system can lead to increased hydrocarbon emissions and trigger the check engine light due to malfunctioning components like the EGR valve or O2 sensors.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2015 Volvo S60 smells like gas?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A failing catalytic converter can cause a vehicle to fail emissions tests and turn on the check engine light. The exhaust might have an unusual smell. A restricted catalytic converter can result in a loss of engine power.

» LEARN MORE: How to tell if your catalytic converter is failing

The check engine light will illuminate any time there is a failed EVAP system test. This will be indicated by the various on-board diagnostics trouble codes that are stored in the vehicle's memory. Also, in some models, there may be a popping sound accompanying the check engine light, as the leak detection pump continuously attempts to pressurize the fuel tank. The canister may also cause difficulty starting the engine, a rough idle, and poor fuel mileage.

The check engine light will illuminate any time there is a failed EVAP system test. This will be indicated by the various on-board diagnostics trouble codes that are stored in the vehicle's memory. Also, in some models, there may be a popping sound accompanying the check engine light, as the leak detection pump continuously attempts to pressurize the fuel tank. A fuel tank leak may also cause difficulty starting the engine, a rough idle, and poor fuel mileage. When a fuel tank is simply corroded to the point of failure, the exterior tank condition rarely shows damage. The inside of the fuel tank will be rusted or corroded, and rust flakes or other debris may be floating in the fuel.

For most vehicles, the only symptom will be a check engine light or fuel tank filler cap light illuminating on the driver instrument cluster. This is to signal that there is an evaporative emissions (EVAP) leak. In some situations, the vehicle may take longer than normal to start, or, more rarely, the engine may not start at all. on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will refer to EVAP system failures such as a small or massive EVAP system leak. Lastly, the powertrain control module may notice a lean running condition, which could even lead to random and infrequent misfires.

What are the potential causes of a gas smell in a 2015 Volvo S60, and what diagnostic steps should be taken first?

When faced with a gas smell in your 2015 Volvo S60, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking for obvious signs of a fuel leak, which can occur in areas like the fuel lines or injectors. Inspect these components visually for any signs of wetness or damage. If no leaks are apparent, consider the possibility of incomplete combustion, which may be indicated by a check engine light or poor vehicle performance. To further investigate, locate the diagnostic port under your dashboard and connect an OBD-II scanner. With the ignition turned on, select the appropriate vehicle model on the scanner and run diagnostic tests. This process will help you uncover any error codes that could point to underlying issues, allowing you to address the gas smell with targeted repairs. By following these steps, you can efficiently diagnose and resolve the gas smell in your Volvo, ensuring a safer driving experience.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2015 Volvo S60?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2015 Volvo S60, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is incomplete combustion, which can stem from issues like a clogged fuel filter or engine malfunctions, leading to odors emanating from the tailpipe or even inside the cabin. Additionally, fuel system malfunctions, such as leaks from rusted hoses or fittings, can create noticeable gas smells. An old or dirty fuel filter may also contribute to this issue by restricting fuel flow, causing gasoline to back up into the engine. If your vehicle's check engine light is on, particularly with a code related to evaporative emissions, this could further indicate a problem contributing to the gas odor. Lastly, a cylinder misfire can lead to excess fuel being dumped into the exhaust system, resulting in a strong gas smell and potentially affecting your vehicle's fuel efficiency. If you're unable to pinpoint the source of the smell, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic is advisable to ensure a thorough diagnosis and resolution of the issue.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2015 Volvo S60?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2015 Volvo S60 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. A persistent gas odor can signal dangerous issues such as fuel leaks, which pose a significant risk of fire or explosion if left unchecked. Additionally, problems like a loose fuel cap or malfunctioning components in the fuel system can lead to decreased vehicle performance and efficiency. Ignoring these symptoms can escalate into more severe complications, potentially resulting in extensive damage to your vehicle and costly repairs. Therefore, it is essential to investigate and resolve any gas smells as soon as they are detected to ensure your safety and maintain the integrity of your vehicle.

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2015 Volvo S60 Smells Like Gas? Causes & Solutions